If you’re thinking about retiring to Orlando, you’ll be in great company. Thousands of newcomers choose this sunny, vibrant city every year. With no state income tax, a mild year-round climate, easy access to beaches, and world-famous attractions just minutes away, Orlando offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. (No wonder it’s considered one of the best cities to retire in Florida!) And with thoughtfully designed communities from Craft Homes, you can enjoy it all from a home built for the way you want to live in retirement.
Retirement living in Orlando, FL, isn’t just about great weather. It’s about embracing a lifestyle that’s as sunny as the skies overhead. From year-round outdoor activities to a vibrant cultural scene, this central Florida city has all the ingredients for a fulfilling and exciting next chapter of life.
Orlando’s climate is a dream for anyone who loves being outdoors. Mild winters and plentiful sunshine make it easy to stay active all year long, whether you’re walking the neighborhood, golfing, or swimming. Plus, warmer weather can help reduce common cold-weather health concerns for seniors, including joint pain and seasonal mood changes.
Living in Orlando means having some of the world’s most famous attractions right in your backyard — think Disney World, Epcot, and Universal Studios — perfect for fun-filled visits with the grandkids. Beyond the theme parks, you’ll find a thriving arts scene, incredible dining, and a calendar full of cultural events to keep life exciting and social.
The area is home to a wide variety of master-planned communities designed specifically with retirees in mind. Many feature resort-style amenities such as fitness centers, golf courses, sparkling pools, and social clubs, making it easy to connect with neighbors who share your interests.
Orlando offers top-tier wellness programs to support your health, with respected hospitals and medical facilities like AdventHealth and Orlando Health. Specialists in geriatric care, along with numerous wellness programs, are widely available to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Florida’s lack of state income tax means your retirement savings can stretch further. Combine that with a cost of living that’s generally lower than many other top retirement destinations, and you have more financial freedom to enjoy life.
From Orlando, you can reach both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts in just a couple of hours, perfect for spontaneous weekend beach trips. The city’s international airport and highway network also make it simple for friends and family to visit or for you to explore other parts of the state.
Whether you’re looking for a lively, walkable community or a peaceful retreat by the water, the Orlando area offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different retirement lifestyles. From charming historic towns to modern master-planned communities, you’ll find a place that feels just right for your next chapter. Let’s look at some of the best places to retire in Florida:
Known for its charming downtown, tree-lined streets, and walkable lifestyle. This picturesque area offers cultural attractions, boutique shopping, and a peaceful suburban feel that’s perfect for a slower pace in retirement.
A modern, fast-growing community with a focus on health, wellness, and innovation. Home to top-tier medical facilities, scenic parks, and beautiful new construction homes, including Laureate Park, where contemporary designs meet resort-style amenities in the heart of Lake Nona.
Nestled among rolling hills and lakes, Clermont offers scenic views and endless outdoor recreation. It’s a quieter, more relaxed alternative that still keeps you close to Orlando’s shopping, dining, and entertainment.
A welcoming, affordable option just southeast of Orlando, St. Cloud blends small-town charm with easy access to lakefront parks and quality healthcare. Weslyn Park at Sunbridge offers thoughtfully designed homes and modern amenities, perfect for a relaxed yet connected retirement lifestyle.
Orlando's cost of living is slightly above Florida’s average and the national average, primarily due to its tourist-driven economy and high housing demand. For comparison, cities like Jacksonville or smaller towns such as Lakeland often offer more budget-friendly options. That said, many retirees manage comfortably in Orlando on under $50,000 annually, even while enjoying a full, active lifestyle. You may pay a bit more in Orlando than in smaller Florida regions, but reinvesting what you gain from no state income tax and a vibrant local economy often offsets the slightly higher everyday costs.
Orlando overall is considered safer than most U.S. cities of a similar size, with crime rates lower than national averages. Certain neighborhoods, like Baldwin Park, College Park, and Delaney Park, are especially sought-after for their safety, community engagement, and good infrastructure. That said, like any metro area, Orlando does have pockets with elevated crime, including instances of violent crime that are above the national average. Retirees should focus on the well-maintained, planned communities with active policing and social oversight, many of which offer gated access, well-lit streets, and neighborhood associations.
Although Orlando is inland, it’s very beach-accessible! Cocoa Beach, the nearest Atlantic shore, is about 52–60 miles east via Highway 528, a roughly 55-minute drive. Popular nearby beaches include Daytona Beach (55 miles, 1 hour) and New Smyrna Beach (71 miles), perfect for day and weekend trips. For Gulf-side sunsets, Clearwater or St. Pete can be reached in about two hours on a scenic drive. In short, Orlando offers beautifully sandy beaches within a comfortable 1 to 2-hour drive, giving retirees easy access to both Atlantic and Gulf coastlines.
While we could go on and on about how Craft communities rank among the best places to live in Orlando for retirees, we’d really just love for you to visit and let us show you. Our homes in Lake Nona and St. Cloud will be the icing on top of an already great decision to move here. Craft Homes has everything you need for a high-quality life. Connect with us today to learn more about our amazing communities. We look forward to helping you!
